Edge and corner for a table top

ABSTRACT

A table includes a table top with an upper surface and a lower surface. The table top is preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic and it includes a generally hollow interior. The table top includes a downwardly extending lip one or more strengthening members that are integrally formed in the lip. The lip is desirably integrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary structure and the lip includes a generally hollow interior that is integrally formed during the blow-molding process with the generally hollow interior of the table top. Advantageously, the table top may include a plurality of depressions that are integrally formed in the table top and the strengthening members may be generally aligned with at least some of the depressions. The strengthening members include one or more of inwardly extending portions, outwardly extending portions and/or ribs that increase a thickness of the lip. The strengthening members may also be formed in a corner of the table top.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/371,486, entitledUTILITY TABLE WITH BLOW-MOLDED TABLE TOP, which was filed on Apr. 9,2002, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention is generally related to tables and, inparticular, to tables with blow-molded plastic table tops.

[0004] 2. Description of Related Art

[0005] Many different types of tables are well known and used for avariety of different purposes. For example, conventional tables mayinclude legs that are pivotally attached to the table top and the legsmay be movable between a use position in which the legs extend outwardlyfrom the table top and a storage position in which the legs are foldedagainst the table top. Large, portable tables with folding legs areoften referred to as “banquet tables” and these tables are often used inassembly halls, banquet halls, convention centers, hotels, schools,churches, and other locations where large groups of people meet. Becausethe tables are portable, the tables can be positioned in an assortmentof different configurations and used in a variety of settings. When thetables are no longer needed, the tables can be moved or stored.

[0006] Banquet tables are often used by various organizations and groupsbecause they allow effective and efficient use of space. For example,banquet tables may be used in large multi-purpose areas such as schoolgymnasiums, meeting halls and hotel conference rooms to allow groups ofpeople to meet. After the meetings are completed, the tables can befolded into a storage position and stowed in a relatively small space.This allows the gymnasiums, meeting halls and conference rooms to beused for other purposes. Thus, banquet tables allow groups andorganizations to efficiently use a particular space.

[0007] Conventional banquet tables with legs that are foldable between ause position and a storage position may also be used in a variety ofother locations. For example, these known tables may provide immediatetable space and/or workspace in a house, apartment, garage, tool shed,and the like. The foldable legs allow the tables to be conveniently setup, taken down, stored and transported whenever and wherever the userchooses.

[0008] It is known to construct conventional banquet tables fromrelatively heavy materials such as wood or metal, which makes the tablesheavy and difficult to move. In particular, the table tops ofconventional banquet tables are often made from fiber board, particleboard, or plywood, and these known table tops may include a plastic orFormica-type surface laminated onto the upper surface of the table topto create a working surface. Disadvantageously, many of theseconventional banquet tables are not very strong and are unable tosupport a desired amount of weight. In order to increase the strength ofthese tables, thicker and heavier table tops are often used.Unfortunately, the thicker and heavier table tops further increase theweight of the tables. As a result, many conventional banquet tables withwooden table tops are undesirably heavy, and two or more people areoften required to move the tables.

[0009] In order to prevent the middle portion of conventional banquettables from sagging, it is known to attach a metal frame to the bottomsurface of the wooden table top. These known metal frames often includedtwo side rails that extended along the longitudinal length of the tabletop and the metal frames are frequently attached to the table top by aplurality of screws. Disadvantageously, the structural integrity of thetable top may be decreased by the holes created by the plurality ofscrews, and this may allow the table to collapse and fail. In addition,because the screws are typically individually attached to the table top,that may significantly increase the amount of the time required toconstruct the table.

[0010] Conventional banquet tables are often six or eight feet in lengthand two or three feet in width. Thus, banquet tables are often difficultto move because of their large size and inherent bulkiness. In addition,as discussed above, these conventional banquet tables are often heavy.Accordingly, if these unwieldy and heavy conventional tables areinadvertently dropped, tipped over, or mishandled while moving or usingthe tables, then injury could result.

[0011] It is known to construct banquet tables from plastic or otherlightweight materials in an attempt to decrease the weight of thetables. Many of these lighter-weight tables, however, lack the strengthand sturdiness of the heavier-weight tables. Thus, many lighter-weighttables require complex support mechanisms and one or more support bracesto increase the strength and sturdiness of the table, which undesirablyincreases the weight and complexity of the tables.

[0012] Conventional banquet tables generally include legs that areattached to the table tops by a number of mechanical fasteners such asscrews or bolts, whether the table tops are constructed from wood,plastic or metal. Disadvantageously, attaching the legs to the tabletops by screws or bolts creates a number of holes in the table tops. Asdiscussed above, these holes may decrease the structural integrity ofthe table top and may create undesirable stress concentrations in thetable top. The holes may also create weakness or failure points thatallow the table to give way and collapse. It is also known to bond thetable legs to the table top by adhesives such as glue, epoxy resins orother suitable types of bonding agents. The bonding of the legs to thetable top, however, may decrease the structural integrity of the tabletop. Significantly, if the mechanical fasteners or adhesive connectionof the legs to the table top fails, then the table may collapse. Theseconventional tables may be difficult to fix or repair, especially if theleg attachment portion of the table top is damaged or pulled away fromthe remaining portion of the table top.

[0013] The use of mechanical fasteners to attach the legs to the tabletop undesirably increases the number of parts required to construct thetable, which may increase the time required to assemble the table. Inaddition, many conventional tables required the legs to be positionedagainst the underside of the table top and then attached to the tabletop by the mechanical fasteners or glue. This increases the difficultyof the manufacturing process because the legs and table top must firstbe held in the desired positions and then the legs must be fastened tothe table top. In particular, if mechanical fasteners are used to attachthe legs to the table top, mating surfaces such as holes in the legs andcorresponding threaded openings in the table top must be carefullyaligned before the legs can be attached to the table top. Accordingly,many conventional tables require one or more persons to hold the legsand table top in the desired locations, and another person to fasten thelegs to the table top. This process is undesirably time consuming andlabor intensive. Alternatively, a single person may be used to attachthe legs to the table top, but this process is difficult to performrapidly and without any errors.

[0014] It is also known to use complex attachment mechanisms tofacilitate attachment of the legs to the table tops. Disadvantageously,these complex attachment mechanisms are generally heavier, moredifficult to install, and more expensive. In addition, these complexattachment mechanisms are often more difficult to use than conventionalmechanical fasteners or adhesives.

[0015] These disadvantages are often compounded because conventionaltables with folding legs typically require separate and distinctattachment mechanisms for attaching each leg or a pair of legs to thetable top. That is, because most conventional banquet tables include aleg or a pair of legs attached to each end of the table, a number ofholes or attachment points are required to attach the legs to the tabletop. Accordingly, many conventional tables have two or four separatepoints of attachment in order to attach the table legs to the table top.Thus, conventional banquet tables often include a plurality of holes ineach end of the table top, and these holes may undesirably allow thetable to fail.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] A need therefore exists for a table that eliminates theabove-described disadvantages and problems.

[0017] One aspect of the invention is a table including a table top andlegs that are movable between a first position in which the legs extendaway from the table top to allow the table to be used and a secondposition in which the legs are positioned near the table top forstorage. Advantageously, the table top and legs create a strong, sturdyand secure table that can be used to support a wide variety of objectsand the table can be used for many different purposes.

[0018] Another aspect is the table top is preferably constructed fromblow-molded plastic to allow a lightweight table to be constructed.Significantly, if the table top is constructed from blow-molded plastic,it can easily be formed into any desired configuration, shape, size anddesign depending, for example, upon the intended use and/orconfiguration of the table. The blow-molded table top is also generallyweather resistant and temperature insensitive, which allows the table tobe used in a wide variety of locations and environments. In addition,the blow-molded table top is durable, long-lasting, and it generallydoes not corrode, rust or otherwise deteriorate over time. Further,because the blow-molded table top is relatively strong, it can be usedto support a relatively large amount of weight. Significantly, theblow-molded table top may form a structural member of the table, or thetable top may be supported by a frame.

[0019] Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic table top is relativelystrong because it includes two or more opposing walls or surfaces thatare separated by a given distance. The opposing walls help create ahigh-strength, rigid table top. In addition, because the interiorportion of the table top is generally hollow, that creates a lightweighttable top. Thus, the blow-molded table top is both lightweight andstrong.

[0020] Still another aspect of the table is the table top may includeone or more depressions, “tack-offs” or “kiss-offs.” The depressions,which extend from one surface towards another surface, are desirablysized and configured to increase the strength and/or rigidity of thetable top. Preferably, the depressions extend from one surface andcontact or engage an opposing surface, but the depressions do not haveto contact or engage another surface. The depressions are desirablyformed in the bottom surface of the table top so that the depressionsare generally not visible. The depressions, however, may be formed inthe top surface and/or any other suitable portions of the table top. Forexample, one or more depressions may be formed in the top surface of thetable top and one or more depressions may be formed in the bottomsurface of the table top, and these opposing depressions may begenerally aligned. At least a portion of these opposing depressions maycontact or engage each other, but the opposing depressions do not haveto touch or engage.

[0021] Significantly, the blow-molded table top can be quickly andeasily constructed. Advantageously, the blow-molding process allows theopposing walls, depressions and other desired features to be quickly andeasily formed in the table top. In addition, the blow-molded table topcan be constructed as an integral, one-piece structure to help create astrong and rigid table top, but the table top could also be constructedfrom two or more pieces that are interconnected.

[0022] A further aspect of the table is the table top can be constructedwith thin outer walls that decrease the amount of plastic required toconstruct the table top. As discussed above, the opposing walls anddepressions allow a strong and sturdy table top to be constructed. Theseand other features also allow the table top to be constructed withrelatively thin outer walls, which reduces the amount of plasticrequired to construct the table top. This may save manufacturing costsand reduce the amount of resources required to construct the table top.The thin outer walls may also allow the table top to be cooled morequickly during the manufacturing process, which may allow the table topsto be manufactured more quickly and efficiently.

[0023] Additionally, because the table top may be constructed fromblow-molded plastic with thin outer walls, this allows a table withreduced weight to be constructed. Significantly, the lightweight tablecan be easily transported, which decreases shipping costs. Additionally,the consumer may appreciate the reduced weight because they can muchmore easily move and/or assemble the table.

[0024] Another aspect of the table is the blow-molded table top mayinclude one or more features that are integrally formed in the table topas part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Advantageously, this mayreduce the number of steps required in the manufacturing process, whichmay reduce the overall cost of the table. For example, the depressionsmay be integrally formed in the table top during the manufacturingprocess. In addition, one or more mounting portions may be integrallyformed in the table top to allow the frame and/or legs to be attached tothe table top. The mounting portions may also allow the frame and/orlegs to be attached to the table top without the use of mechanicalfasteners such as bolts or screws.

[0025] Yet another aspect of the table is the one or more depressionsformed in the table top may be located in a predetermined pattern toincrease the strength of the table top and/or decrease the amount ofplastic used to construct the table top. Advantageously, if thedepressions are placed near each other, then the table top may beconstructed with thinner outer surfaces or walls and the strength of thetable top may be increased. Desirably, the locations of the depressionsdo not vary significantly even when other features are integrally formedin the table top. Thus, for example, the depressions are preferablypositioned in close proximity and in the same general pattern evenaround features such as attachment points, edges and other features ofthe table top. In addition, one or more depressions may be formed withinthe various features to maintain the generally consistent pattern ofdepressions. Significantly, the generally uniform pattern of depressionsmay allow a table top with homogeneous characteristics to beconstructed.

[0026] A further aspect of the table is the legs can preferably be movedinto a storage position to allow the table to be more easily transportedor shipped. Desirably, the legs are at least partially disposed withinrecesses or channels to allow the height of the table in the storageposition to be decreased. This may also allow the tables to be moreeasily stacked, shipped and transported. The legs may also have an ovalor other non-circular configuration to further decrease the height ofthe table in the storage position.

[0027] Another aspect is the table may be easily assembled and/ordisassembled because it does not include any heavy or complex mechanismsto attach the legs to the table top. In contrast, the table preferablyincludes a frame that can be attached to the table top by a snap,friction or interference fit. Specifically, the frame preferablyincludes two elongated side rails that are connected to frame mountingportions that are integrally formed in the table top. Significantly, nobolts, screws or other mechanical fasteners are required to attach theframe to the table top, but fasteners may be used if desired. Becausemechanical fasteners are not required to attach the frame to the tabletop, fewer parts are required to assemble the table and no decrease inthe structural integrity or strength of the table is created.

[0028] Still another aspect is the table can be manufactured quickly andeasily. In particular, because the frame can be connected to the tabletop by a snap, friction or interference fit, no fasteners are requiredto attach the frame to the table top. This may allow the table to beassembled with less time than conventional tables. In addition, becausethe frame may be simply and easily connected to the table top, fewerworkers may be required to assemble the table. Further, the straightforward design and attachment of the frame to the table top may allowthe table to be shipped either assembled or unassembled, and it mayallow retailers or consumers to assemble the table if desired.

[0029] A further aspect of the table is the legs may be attached to theframe. In particular, the side rails of the frame may include openingsthat are sized and configured to receive a cross member that allows thelegs to pivot between a use position and a storage position relative tothe table top. The openings preferably have a non-circular configurationand the cross member also has a non-circular cross-sectionalconfiguration. In particular, the openings and the cross member may haveoval, elliptical, oblong or egg-shaped configurations. The openings andcross member are preferably configured such that when the legs arepositioned in the folded or stored position, the cross member isrelatively loosely held within the openings in the frame. On the otherhand, when the legs are in the extended or use position, the crossmember is held tightly within the openings in the frame.

[0030] Another aspect of the table is the legs may be held in the foldedor storage position by a retaining member or clip. The clip ispreferably connected to the table top by a clip receiving portion thatis integrally formed in the underside of the table top. The clip ispreferably held within the clip receiving portion by a snap, friction orinterference fit.

[0031] Still another aspect of the table is the legs can be held in theupright or extended position by a support brace. The support bracepreferably includes a first end that is connected to the leg and asecond end that is connected to a retaining member or bracket. Thesupport brace is preferably connected to the leg and the bracket withoutthe use of mechanical fasteners such as screws or rivets.

[0032] A further aspect of the invention is the support brace mayinclude a locking mechanism that secures the support brace and the legsin an extended position. The locking mechanism preferably secures thelegs in the extended position regardless of the position or orientationof the table. Thus, the legs will not move from the extended position tothe collapsed position even if the table is turned on its side or placedupside-down.

[0033] Yet another aspect of the table is the bracket or retainingmember is preferably attached to the table top by a snap, interferenceor friction fit. Desirably, the bracket is connected to the table topwithout requiring the use of any fasteners or adhesives, but fastenersor adhesives could be used if desired.

[0034] A further aspect is the table can be constructed withoutrequiring the use of mechanical fasteners or tools. As discussed above,the frame, legs and retaining members can be secured to the table topwithout requiring the use of mechanical fasteners. In addition, the legscan be connected to the frame and the support braces without the use ofmechanical fasteners. Thus, the table can be assembled without usingmechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, and rivets. Advantageously,this may decrease the cost of the table because fewer components arerequired to assemble the table. In addition, the table can be morequickly and easily assembled because it does not require the use toolsto attach the various components. This may also allow the consumer orpurchaser to more easily assemble the table.

[0035] Another aspect is the table top may include a downwardlyextending lip and the inner surface of the lip may include a number ofserrations, notches, ribs, and/or struts that are sized and configuredto increase the strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the lip.Advantageously, the uneven inner surfaces of the lip may increase thestrength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the table top. In addition, thecorners of the table top may also include one or more serrations,notches, ribs, and/or struts that are sized and configured to increasethe strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the corners.

[0036] A still further aspect of the table is the table top may beconstructed from two or more pieces. The two or more pieces arepreferably pivotally connected to allow the table top to fold into acompact position. For example, the table top may be constructed from afirst piece and a second piece with one or more interlocking portionsand one or more overlapping portions. These interlocking and/oroverlapping portions allow the two pieces of the table top to besecurely interconnected to form a rigid table top. Significantly, thetable top constructed from two or more pieces may allow the table to bemore easily transported and/or stored because, for example, it may befolded in half.

[0037] Another aspect is a table with a table top including an uppersurface and a lower surface, the table top being constructed fromblow-molded plastic and including a generally hollow interior. A leastone leg is attached to the table top and a lip downwardly extends fromthe table top, the lip including a lower surface and an inner surface.One or more strengthening members are integrally formed in the lip aspart of a unitary structure, the strengthening members being sized andconfigured to increase the strength of the lip. The lip is preferablyintegrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piececonstruction, and the lip includes a generally hollow interior that isintegrally formed during the blow-molding process with the generallyhollow interior of the table top. Additionally, a plurality ofdepressions may be integrally formed in the table top as part of theunitary, one-piece construction, the plurality of depressions beingarranged into a predetermined pattern and the one or more strengtheningmembers being generally aligned with at least some of the plurality ofdepressions. Further, the strengthening members include one or more ofinwardly extending portions, outwardly extending portions and/or ribs.Finally, one or more strengthening members may be integrally formed in acorner of the table top as part of a unitary structure, thestrengthening members being sized and configured to increase thestrength of the corner, and the corner may have an increased radius ofcurvature to further increase the strength of the corner.

[0038] Yet another aspect is a table including a table top with an uppersurface and a lower surface. The table top is constructed fromblow-molded plastic and it includes a generally hollow interior and atleast two corners. A least one leg is attached to the table top and atleast one corner is formed in the table top, the corner including aninner surface and a lower surface. One or more strengthening members areintegrally formed in the corner as part of a unitary structure.Desirably, the strengthening members are sized and configured toincrease the strength of the corner. The corner is preferably integrallyformed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piece construction,and the corner includes a generally hollow interior that is integrallyformed during the blow-molding process with the generally hollowinterior of the table top. The table may include a plurality ofdepressions integrally formed in the table top as part of the unitary,one-piece construction. The depressions are preferably arranged into apredetermined pattern and the one or more strengthening members aregenerally aligned a with at least some of the plurality of depressions.The strengthening members include inwardly extending portions, outwardlyextending portions and/or ribs. The table may also include strengtheningmembers that are integrally formed in a lip of the table top as part ofa unitary structure, the strengthening members being sized andconfigured to increase the strength of the lip.

[0039] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more fully apparent from the following detaileddescription of preferred embodiments and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments tofurther illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantagesand features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that thesedrawings depict only preferred embodiments of the invention and are notintended to limits its scope. The invention will be described andexplained with additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

[0041]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a table in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention, illustrating the legs in anextended position;

[0042]FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a portion of the table shown in FIG. 1,illustrating the frame and legs disconnected from the lower surface ofthe table top;

[0043]FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the table shown in FIG. 1, illustratingthe frame attached to the lower surface of the table top and the legs ina collapsed position;

[0044]FIG. 3A is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view along lines3A-3A of the table top shown in FIG. 3, illustrating a portion of theframe attached to the table top by a frame mounting portion and adownwardly extending lip;

[0045]FIG. 3B is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view along lines3B-3B of the table top shown in FIG. 3, illustrating a portion of abracket attached to the table top by a bracket mounting portion;

[0046]FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of a portion of the tableshown in FIG. 1, illustrating the legs, frame, support braces andbrackets;

[0047]FIG. 5 is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view of a portion ofthe table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the leg in an extended positionand the cross tube connected to the side rails of the frame;

[0048]FIG. 6 is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view of a portion ofthe table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the leg and the support brace inthe collapsed position;

[0049]FIG. 7 is an exploded, cross-sectional side view of a portion ofthe table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the leg and the support brace inthe extended position;

[0050]FIG. 8 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the table shown inFIG. 1, illustrating the support brace in the extended position and alocking mechanism in a locked position;

[0051]FIG. 9 is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view along lines 9-9of the portion of the table shown in FIG. 8, illustrating the lockingmechanism in a locked position;

[0052]FIG. 10 is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view of the portionof the table shown in FIG. 9, illustrating the locking mechanism in anunlocked position and the support brace moving from the extended to thecollapsed position;

[0053]FIG. 11 is an enlarged, exploded top perspective view of a portionof the table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating a portion of the leg and aportion of the support brace;

[0054]FIG. 12 is an enlarged, exploded top perspective view of a portionof the table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the connection of the supportbrace to the leg;

[0055]FIG. 13 is an enlarged, exploded bottom perspective view of aportion of the table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the connection of thesupport brace to the leg; FIG. 14 is an enlarged, top perspective viewof a portion of the table shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the connectionof the support brace to the mounting bracket;

[0056]FIG. 15 is an enlarged, top perspective view of a portion of thetable shown in FIG. 1, illustrating a leg receiving clip connected tothe lower surface of the table top;

[0057]FIG. 16 is an enlarged, perspective view of the clip shown in FIG.15;

[0058]FIG. 17 is an enlarged, cross-sectional side view of the clipshown in FIG. 15, illustrating the clip connected to the lower surfaceof the table top;

[0059]FIG. 18 is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the table shownin FIG. 1, illustrating an inner surface of the lip and corner with oneor more strengthening members;

[0060]FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the tablethat can be folded in half; and

[0061]FIG. 20 is another perspective view of the table shown in FIG. 19,illustrating the table partially folded in half.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0062] The present invention is generally directed towards a table witha frame that can be connected to the table top without using mechanicalfasteners. The principles of the present invention, however, are notlimited to tables with frames that can be connected to table topswithout using mechanical fasteners. It will be understood that, in lightof the present disclosure, the table disclosed herein can besuccessfully used in connection with other types of furniture andstructures.

[0063] Additionally, to assist in the description of the table, wordssuch as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left are used to describethe accompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that thetable can be located in a variety of desired positions—including variousangles, sideways and even upside down. A detailed description of thetable now follows.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the table 10 includes a table top 12with an upper surface 14, a lower surface 16, a first end 18, a secondend 20, a front side 22 and a rear side 24. The upper surface 14 of thetable top 12 is preferably generally planar to create a smooth, flatworking surface, but the upper surface could also be textured and haveother suitable configurations depending, for example, upon the intendeduse of the table 10. The table top 12 may also include an edge 26 thatis disposed about the outer perimeter or periphery of the table top. Allor a portion of the edge 26 may be beveled, sloped or rounded to, forexample, increase the comfort and safety of the user. The table top 12may also include a downwardly extending lip 28 disposed near or at theouter portion of the table top. The lip 28 preferably extends downwardlybeyond the lower surface 16 of the table top 12 and the lip may bealigned with or form a part of the edge 26 of the table top. It will beappreciated that the lip 28 may also be spaced inwardly from the edge 26of the table top 12. Various embodiments of a lip that may be used inconjunction with the table top 12 are disclosed in Assignee's co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/096,814, entitled Portable FoldingUtility Table with Integral Table Top and Lip, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0065] The table top 12 preferably has a generally rectangularconfiguration with rounded corners and slightly rounded edges 26.Desirably, the table top 12 has a relatively large size and it isconfigured for use as a banquet style table. In particular, the tabletop 12 may have a length of about five feet (or about sixty inches) anda width of about two and one-half feet (or about thirty inches), but thetable top can be larger or smaller. For example, the table top 12 couldbe six or eight feet in length, and the table top could be two or threefeet in width. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the table top12 can be larger or smaller according, for example, to the intended useof the table 10. Additionally, the table top 12 may have other suitableshapes and configurations such as square, circular, oval, and the likedepending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10. Inaddition, the corners and edges 26 of the table top 12 do not have torounded and, in contrast, the corners and edges could have any desirableconfiguration, but the rounded features may increase the comfort and/orsafety of the user. Further, the table top 12 could be sized andconfigured for use with other types of tables such as utility tables,card tables, personal-sized tables, and the like.

[0066] The table top 12 is preferably constructed from a lightweightmaterial and, more preferably, the table top is constructed fromplastic, such as high density polyethylene. The plastic table top 12 isdesirably formed by a blow-molding process because, for example, itallows a strong, lightweight, rigid and sturdy table top to be quicklyand easily manufactured. Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic tabletop 12 is lighter weight that conventional table tops constructed fromwood or metal. The blow-molded plastic table top 12 is lightweightbecause it is substantially hollow. It will be appreciated that thesubstantially hollow table top 12 can include table tops that aregenerally hollow or completely hollow.

[0067] The table top 12 is preferably constructed from blow-moldedplastic because blow-molded plastic table tops are relatively durable,weather resistant, temperature insensitive, corrosion resistant, rustresistant, and blow-molded plastic generally does not deteriorate overtime. One skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the tabletop 12 does not have to be constructed from blow-molded plastic andother suitable materials and/or processes can be used to construct thetable top such as other types of plastics, polymers and syntheticmaterials. In addition, the table top 12 may be constructed from othermaterials with sufficient strength and desirable characteristics such asplywood, particle board, solid wood, wood slates, metal alloys,fiberglass, ceramics, graphite, and the like.

[0068] The upper surface 14 and the lower surface 16 of the table top 12are spaced apart a given distance and these two spaced apart surfaceshelp create a rigid and strong table top 12. Preferably, the uppersurface 14 and the lower surface 16 are separated by a generallyconstant distance so that the surfaces are generally aligned in parallelplanes. The upper and lower surfaces 14, 16 of the table top 12 may alsobe interconnected by one or more tack-offs, kiss-offs or depressions 30,or other reinforcement structures, which may be sized and configured tofurther increase the strength and rigidity of the table top 12.Advantageously, the depressions 30 and/or other reinforcement structurescan be integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece table top 12during the blow-molding process.

[0069] The depressions 30 are preferably located in the lower surface 16of table top 12 and the depressions are preferably sized and configuredto increase the strength and structural integrity of the table top. Thedepressions 30 preferably extend towards the upper surface 14 of thetable top and the ends of the depressions 30 may contact or engage theupper surface of the table top 12, or the ends of the depressions may bespaced from the upper surface of the table top. As shown in FIGS. 2 and3, the depressions 30 preferably cover substantially the entire lowersurface 16 of the table top 12, but it will be appreciated that thedepressions may cover only a portion of the table top. Additionally,while the depressions 30 are shown and described as being located in thelower surface 16 of the table top 12, it will be appreciated that thedepressions could be formed in any desired portion of the table top. Forexample, it will be appreciated that one or more depressions 30 may beformed in the upper surface 14 of the table top 12 and one or moredepressions may be formed in the lower surface 16 of the table top, andthese opposing depressions may be generally aligned. At least a portionof these opposing depressions 30 may contact or engage each other, butthe opposing depressions do not have to touch or engage.

[0070] The depressions 30 are preferably arranged into a predeterminedpattern or array in order to increase the strength and structuralintegrity of the table top 12. In particular, the depressions 30 arepreferably spaced closely together in a predetermined pattern such thatthe distance between the depressions is minimized. Advantageously,minimizing the distance between the depressions 30 may minimize theunsupported areas of the upper surface 14 of the table top 12, which mayincrease the smoothness of the upper surface of the table top. Inaddition, minimizing the distance between the depressions 30 mayincrease the structural integrity and strength of the table top 12.Thus, the depressions 30 are desirably closely spaced on the lowersurface 16 of the table top 12 such that the depressions are separatedby a minimum distance in order to create a table top with greaterstrength, structural integrity, and an upper surface 14 with increasedsmoothness.

[0071] Advantageously, the increased structural integrity and strengthof the table top 12 may allow the outer wall thickness of the table topto be decreased, which may allow less plastic to be used to constructthe table 10. Because less plastic may be required to construct thetable top 12, that may allow the cost of the table 10 to be decreased.In addition, the blow-molded table top 12 may cool more quickly duringthe manufacturing process because of the thinner outer wall. This allowsthe table top 12 to be removed from the manufacturing mold more quicklyand it may allow the table top to be removed at a higher temperaturebecause it dissipates heat much more rapidly. Significantly, because thecycle time required to construct the table top 12 may be decreased, themanufacturing efficiency may be increased.

[0072] The depressions 30 are also preferably arranged in apredetermined pattern with a generally constant and uniform spacing sothat the table top 12 has generally uniform characteristics. Inparticular, the depressions 30 are preferably arranged into a uniformpattern across the entire surface of the table top 12 so that thestrength, structural integrity and/or other characteristics of the tabletop are generally uniform throughout the table top. Thus, the table top12 has fewer, if any, weak or unsupported portions which decrease thestrength and structural integrity of the table top. Thus, thedepressions 30 may be used to create a table top 12 with generallyuniform characteristics throughout the table top.

[0073] Desirably, other features formed in the table top 12 are sizedand configured such that they do not significantly disturb or disruptthe desired pattern of depressions 30. In addition, the depressions 30are preferably integrally formed in the table top 12 as part of aunitary, one-piece structure. Advantageously, the depressions 30 can beintegrally formed in the table top 12 during the blow-molding process.Additional details regarding the size, shape and configuration ofdepressions that are suitable for use in connection with the table top12 are disclosed in Assignee's co-pending U.S. patent application Ser.No. ______, (attorney docket no. 15499.370) entitled High-Strength,Lightweight Blow-molded Plastic Structures, which is hereby incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

[0074] As best seen in FIGS. 3, 3A and 4, a frame 32 is connected to thelower surface 16 of the table top 12. The frame 32 desirably includestwo side rails 34 that extend along the length of the table top 12 andthe side rails are preferably positioned near opposing edges 26 of thetable top. In particular, the side rails 34 are preferably disposedinwardly from the lip 28 such that there is a gap or space between theside rails and the lip. The side rails 34 preferably extend almost theentire length of the table top 12 to provide increased strength andrigidity for the table top, but the side rails may extend along only aportion of the length of the table and the side rails may not berequired to provide increased strength or rigidity to the table top.

[0075] The frame 32 is desirably constructed from metal, which mayeasily be formed into the desired configuration by known operations suchas stamping and bending, and the metal may be coated or painted asdesired. The frame 32 may also include one or more end rails attached tothe ends of the side rails 34 and the frame may provide attachmentpoints for the legs, as discussed in more detail below. While the frame32 preferably includes two side rails 34 that are generally aligned in aparallel configuration, it will be appreciated that the frame may haveother suitable configurations and arrangements depending, for example,upon the size and shape of the table top 12 or the intended use of thetable 10.

[0076] The frame 32 is desirably connected to the lower surface 16 ofthe table top 12 by one or more frame mounting portions 36 that allowthe frame to be connected to the table top by a snap, friction orinterference fit. Advantageously, the connection of the frame 32 to thetable top 12 does not require the use of mechanical fasteners such asbolts or screws, which desirably expedites the manufacturing or assemblyprocess, but fasteners may be used if desired. Additionally, becausescrews, bolts and other types of mechanical fasteners are not requiredto attach the frame 32 to the table top 12, no holes or other types ofstress concentrations are formed in the table top. Thus, the strengthand structural integrity of the table top 12 is not compromised bydrilling holes in the table top. In addition, because the frame 32 ispreferably not bonded to the lower surface 16 of table top 12, the tabletop is not weakened or damaged by adhesive. Thus, strength and integrityof the table top 12 may be retained because the frame 32 is not screwed,bolted or bonded directly to lower surface 16 of the table top. Further,the attachment of the frame 32 to the frame mounting portions 36 mayreduce the likelihood of deformation or damage to the table top.Finally, the connection of the frame 32 to the table top 12 withoutusing mechanical fasteners or adhesive may facilitate assembly of thetable 10 by the retailer or consumer.

[0077] The frame mounting portions 36 are sized and configured to retainthe frame 32 in a generally fixed position and to prevent the unintendedremoval of the frame from the table top 12. The frame mounting portions36 desirably have about the same length as the side rails 34 and thisallows the frame 32 to be connected to the frame mounting portions alongthe entire length of the side rails. Advantageously, any forces actingon the table top 12 and/or the frame 32 are distributed over a largearea. In contrast, conventional tables that attached the frame to thetable top by mechanical fasteners distributed forces over a much smallerarea, which makes conventional tables much more likely to fail.Therefore, the frame mounting portions 36 may provide a very secureattachment of the frame 32 to the table top 12 even though mechanicalfasteners are not required. It will be appreciated that the framemounting portions 36 may have a length less than the frame 32 so thatonly portions of the frame are attached to the frame mounting portions.

[0078] As best seen in FIGS. 3A and 4, the side rails 34 of the frame 32preferably have a generally U-shaped configuration with a first side 38,a second side 40, and a connecting portion 42. The first side 38 of theside rail 34 includes an engaging portion 44 and the second side 40includes an engaging portion 46. The engaging portions 44, 46 are spacedapart a distance and the engaging portions are sized and configured tosecurely attach the side rails 34 of the frame 32 to frame mountingportions 36. Because the frame mounting portions 36 are desirablyintegrally formed in the table top 12 as part of a unitary, one-piecestructure, the frame 32 can be directly attached to the table top 12.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 3A, the frame mounting portion 36 includes anopening 48 and a recess 50 that is sized and configured to receive aportion of the side rails 34. In particular, the opening 48 to the framemounting portion 36 is preferably slightly smaller than the distanceseparating the engaging portions 44, 46 of the side rails 34. Thus, whenthe engaging portions 44, 46 of the side rails 34 are inserted into theopening 48, the engaging portions 44, 46 must deflect inwardly and/orthe opening must deform to allow the side rails to be inserted into therecess 50 of the frame mounting portion 36. Once the engaging portions44, 46 are inserted into the recess 50, the engaging portions and/or theopening 48 resiliently or elastically return to there respectiveoriginal positions to secure the side rail 34 within the frame mountingportion 36.

[0080] The engaging portions 44, 46 of the side rails 34 may engage oneor more corresponding surfaces within the recess 50 to help secure theframe 32 to the table top 12. As seen in FIGS. 3A and 4, the engagingportions 44, 46 are preferably the ends of the first side 38 and secondside 40 of the side rail 34 that are bent outwardly at an angle lessthan about 90° relative to the first and second sides, respectively. Theengaging portions 44, 46 preferably include sharp edges 52 that aresized and configured to engage corresponding side walls 54, 56 of therecess 50. Advantageously, the sharp edges 52 engage and bite into thesofter, blow-molded plastic material of the recess 50 to allow the frame32 to be securely connected to the table top 12. Significantly, theengagement of the engaging portions 44, 46 and the edges 52 to therecess 50 provides a large contact area between the frame 32 and theframe mounting portions 36.

[0081] As seen in FIGS. 2, 3 and 3A, the frame mounting portions 36 areformed in the lower surface 16 of the table top 12 and one or moredepressions 30 are preferably formed in the lower portion of the recess50 so that a generally consistent, uniform pattern of depressions isformed in the table top 12. Advantageously, this helps create a tabletop 12 with increased strength, structural integrity and generallyuniform characteristics. One skilled in the art will appreciate that thedepressions 30 could have other suitable arrangements and depressions donot have to be formed in the lower portion of the recess 50.

[0082] In addition, because at least a portion of the side rails 34 areinserted into the recesses 50, the side rails and the connecting portion42 of the frame 32 do not extend a large distance away from the lowersurface 16 of the table top 12. This may allow a table 10 with a lowprofile to be designed and manufactured. Significantly, if the height ofthe table top 12 is relatively small, then the tables 10 may be moreeasily stacked. This may assist in the shipping and storage of thetables 10. Additionally, the lip 28 may have a height that is largerthan or equal to the distance that the side rails 34 extend from thelower surface 16 of the table top 12 so that the frame is generallyhidden from view when the table 10 is viewed from a plane generallyaligned with the upper surface 14 of the table top 12. Advantageously,because the frame 32 may be completely or generally hidden from view,the frame does not have to be finished and it may contain visibleimperfections or flaws. In addition, because the frame 32 may becompletely or generally hidden from view by the lip 28, a moreaesthetically pleasing table 10 may be created. It will be appreciated,however, that the lip 28 does not have to hide all or a portion of theframe 32 from view.

[0083] As shown in the accompanying figures, the frame 32 engages orabuts several different surfaces of the frame mounting portions 36 tosecurely attach the frame to the table top 12. The engagement of theside rails 34 to several different surfaces of the frame mountingportions 36 over an extended length allows any forces or loads on thetable top 12 and the frame 32 to be distributed over a large area, whichhelps prevent failure of the table 10. Additionally, because theengaging portions 44, 46 of the side rails 34 preferably extendoutwardly and are spaced wider apart than the opening 48 to the framemounting portions 36, a secure snap, friction or interference connectionof the frame 32 to the table top 12 may be established. Further, theside rails 34 and the frame mounting portions 36 are preferablygenerally symmetrical to help prevent undesirable twisting of the frame32 and/or table top 12.

[0084] Advantageously, the frame 32 can be quickly and easily connectedto the table top 12 by inserting the engaging portions 44, 46 of theside rails 34 into the openings 48 in the frame mounting portions 36. Asdiscussed above, mechanical fasteners such as screws or bolts are notrequired to connect the frame 32 to the table top 12, but such fastenersmay be used if desired. In addition, the frame 32 can be more easilydisconnected from the table top 12, if desired, because mechanicalfasteners do not have to be removed. Other suitable embodiments forconnecting a frame to a table top are disclosed in Assignee's co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, (attorney docket no. 15499.399)entitled Table with Frame That Can Be Attached to the Table Top withoutMechanical Fasteners, which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

[0085] As best seen in FIGS. 4, 6 and 7, the side rails 34 of the frame32 include openings 60 that are sized and configured to allow legs 62,64 to be attached to the table 10. The legs 62, 64 are sized andconfigured to support the table top 12 above a surface such as a floorand the legs may be adjustable in length. The legs 62, 64 are preferablydisposed between the side rails 34 of the frame and the openings 60 arepreferably located near the ends of the side rails 34 in generallyaligned pairs. It will be appreciated that the openings 60 could bepositioned in any desired locations depending, for example, theconfiguration of the legs 62, 64 and/or the frame 32.

[0086] The openings 60 preferably have a non-circular configuration suchas oval, oblong, egg-shaped, kidney-shaped, key-shaped, etc., which issized and configured to receive a portion of the legs 62, 64. As shownin the accompanying figures, the openings 60 include a length 66 that isgenerally aligned with the longitudinal length of the side rails 34 anda height 68 that is generally aligned with the height of the side rails.It will be appreciated that one or more bushings, sleeves, bearings, andthe like may be used in conjunction with openings 60 to facilitate theconnection of the legs 62, 64 to the frame.

[0087] The legs 62, 64, which are movable between a first extendedposition in which the legs extend away from the table top 12 and asecond collapsed position in which the legs are positioned near thetable top for storage, include a connecting rod 70 that is sized andconfigured to be inserted into the openings 60 in the side rails 34 ofthe frame 32. The rotation of the connecting rod 70 within the opening60 allows the legs 62, 64 to move between the first and second positionsrelative to the table top 12.

[0088] As best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12 includes receiving channels 72 that are sized and configured toreceive at least a portion of the legs 62, 64 in the collapsed position.The receiving channels 72 advantageously receive at least a portion ofthe legs 62, 64 to decrease the height of the table 10 in the storageposition. This allows more tables 10 to be stacked and stored in alimited amount of space, and this may facilitate shipping andtransportation of the tables. As shown in the accompanying figures, oneor more depressions 30 are preferably located in the receiving channels72 so that the consistent pattern and arrangement of depressions ismaintained. It will be appreciated, however, that depressions 30 do nothave to be formed in the receiving channels 72 and receiving channels donot have to be formed in the table top 12.

[0089] The connecting rod 70 preferably has a non-circularcross-sectional configuration and the openings 60 in the side rails 34of the frame 32 also preferably have a non-circular configuration. Forexample, the openings 60 and the connecting rod 70 may have aconfiguration that is oval, oblong, egg-shaped, kidney-shaped,key-shaped, etc. Desirably, the non-circular opening 60 and thenon-circular cross-sectional configuration of the connecting rod 70 aresized and configured such that the connecting rod is not securely heldwithin the opening when the legs are in the collapsed position. Thus, inthe collapsed position, one or more small gaps or spaces are locatedbetween connecting rod 70 and the opening 60 so that the connecting rodcan move slightly within the opening. Advantageously, this allows thelegs 62, 64 to be more easily connected to the side rails 34 because ofthe larger clearance.

[0090] Additionally, because there is some movement or “play” betweenthe legs 62, 64 and the side rails 34 when the legs are in the collapsedposition, that may allow the legs to fold flatter such that the legscontact and/or are generally parallel to the lower surface 16 of thetable top 12. Further, the movement of the legs 62, 64 within theopenings 60 may allow the legs to be positioned in the desired collapsedposition even if, for example, there is some slight imperfection in thetable 10 or if a portion of the table has expanded or contracted due totemperature. Accordingly, the tables 10 may be more easily manufacturedand assembled because of the greater tolerances, and the tables may foldflatter to facilitate stacking of the tables.

[0091] When the legs 62, 64 are in the extended position, however, theconnecting rod 70 is preferably securely held within the openings 60 torigidly and securely attach the legs to the table top 12. In particular,when the connecting rod 70 is rotated within the openings 60 to theextended position, the connecting rod and openings are sized andconfigured such that there is no or very little movement or play betweenthe connecting rod and the openings. Thus, the legs 62, 64 desirably donot shake or wobble in the extended position.

[0092] For example, the openings 60 in the side rail 34 may have aheight of about 0.94 ({fraction (15/16)}) inches and an overall lengthof about 1.5 inches, and the connecting rod 70 may have an ovalconfiguration with a height of about 0.94 ({fraction (15/16)}) inchesand a width of about 0.75 (¾) inches. Advantageously, these sizes andconfigurations allow the connecting rod 70 to be relatively easilyinserted into the openings 60 and the connecting rod can move slightlywithin the opening when the legs 62, 64 are in the collapsed position.In particular, as best seen in FIG. 6, the connecting rod 70 can movewithin the opening 60 because there are gaps or spaces between theconnecting rod and the opening. On the other hand, when the legs 62, 64are in the extended position, the connecting rod 70 is securely heldwithin the opening 60. As best seen in FIG. 7, the upper and lower endsof the connecting rod 70 engage the upper and lower portions of theopening 60 when the legs 62, 64 are in the extended position.

[0093] It will be appreciated that the openings 60 and connecting rod 70can have other suitable sizes and configurations depending, for example,upon the size and/or intended use of the table 10. It will also beappreciated that other suitable combinations of the openings 60 andconnecting rod 70 may be utilized, such as the combination of generallycircular openings and non-circular connecting rods, or non-circularopenings and generally circular connecting rods. Further, it will beappreciated that the legs 62, 64 may be attached to the frame 32 ortable top 12 by other suitable types of devices and mechanisms.

[0094] The legs 62, 64, as best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, are attached toor include the connecting rod 70 and the legs include a pair ofelongated support members 74, 76 and a foot portion 78. Advantageously,the two separate elongated support members 74, 76 may help preventtwisting or torque on the connection of the support members to theconnecting rod 70 and the foot portion 78. Additionally, while theelongated support members 74, 76 are preferably welded to the connectingrod 70 and the foot portion 78, the support members may be connected tothe connecting rod and foot portion by any suitable method or device.

[0095] As best seen in FIG. 5, the elongated support members 74, 76preferably have a generally curved configuration. In particular, theupper portions of the elongated support members 74, 76 are preferablyspaced apart to provide a secure attachment of the support members tothe connecting rod 70, the middle portions of the elongated supportmembers are preferably more closely spaced together, and the lowerportions of the elongated support members are spaced apart to provide asecure connection to the foot portion 78. The foot portion 78 preferablyhas an upwardly extending curved section and feet 82 may be connected tothe ends of the foot portion. A connecting member 80 is preferablydisposed near the middle portion of the elongated support members 74, 76to help maintain the support members in the desired positions.

[0096] The connecting rod 70, elongated support members 74, 76 and footportion 78 of the legs 62, 64 are desirably constructed from hollowmetal tubes because the metal tubes are relatively lightweight andstrong. The hollow metal tubes forming the connecting rod 70, elongatedsupport members 74, 76 and foot portion 78 desirably have a generallyoval configuration to provide increased strength. Advantageously, theoval configuration may also be used to create a thinner profile for thelegs 62, 64, which may create a thinner profile for the table 10 whenthe legs are in the collapsed position.

[0097] It will be appreciated that the legs 62, 64 may be constructedfrom other materials with the suitable characteristics and the legs mayhave other shapes and configurations depending, for example, upon theintended use of the table 10. For example, the legs 62, 64 may includeonly a single elongated support member or multiple elongated supportmembers, and the legs may be constructed as a single component ormultiple components that are connected together. It will further beappreciated that the legs 62, 64 need not be in pivotal engagement withframe 32 or the table top 12 to be collapsible. For example, the legs62, 64 may be detachably connected to the table top 12 such that when itis desired to collapse the table 10 for storage, the legs are detachedfrom the table top. Other suitable embodiments for connecting legs to atable top are disclosed in Assignee's copending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. ______, (attorney docket no. 15499.403) entitled PivotalConnection of a Table Leg to a Frame, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

[0098] A support brace 84 is used to support the legs 62, 64 in theextended position. The support brace 84 includes a first end 86 that isattached to the leg 62, 64 and a second end 88 that is attached to thetable top 12 by a mounting member or bracket 90. The support brace 84 ispreferably pivotally connected to the leg 62, 64 and the bracket 90 toallow the leg to be moved between the extended and collapsed positions.It will be appreciated that while the legs 62, 64 are in the extended orcollapsed positions, the support brace 84 is also in a correspondingextended or collapsed position. Advantageously, the support brace 84 canbe connected to the leg 62, 64 and the bracket 90 without the use ofmechanical fasteners such as screws, rivets or bolts. Significantly, thetable 10 may be built more quickly because fewer components may berequired to assemble the table and no mechanical fasteners are needed toattach the support brace 84 to the legs 62, 64 or the table top 12. Itwill be appreciated, however, that one or more mechanical fasteners maybe used to connect the support brace 84 to the leg 62, 64 and/or thetable top 12.

[0099] In greater detail, as best seen in FIGS. 10, 11 and 12, the firstend 86 of the support brace 84 includes two curved arms 92 and eachcurved arm has an opening 94 that leads to a generally circular interiorportion 96. The two generally circular interior portions 96 aregenerally aligned along the same axis and disposed at the end 86 of thesupport brace 84. The generally circular interior portions 96 are sizedand configured to receive corresponding receiving portions 98 formed inthe connecting member 80. In particular, the receiving portions 98include a flange 100 with rounded ends 102 and corresponding openings104. The support brace 84 is connected to the leg 62, 64 by disposingthe rounded ends 102 of the flange 100 within the generally circularinterior portions 96 of the curved arms 92. In addition, the curved arms92 of the support brace 84 are disposed within the openings 104 in theconnecting member 80. Advantageously, when the support brace 84 isconnected to the legs 62, 64 and the table top 12, the support bracecannot be inadvertently disconnected from the legs. While thisconnection of the support brace 84 to the leg 62, 64 does not requirethat use of any mechanical fasteners, it will be appreciated thatmechanical fasteners may be used to connect the support brace to thelegs 62, 64.

[0100] In order to attach the support brace 84 to the leg 62, 64, thetwo generally circular interior portions 96 of the curved arms 92 arecoaxially aligned with the rounded ends 102 of the flange 100. Therounded ends 102 of the flange 100 are then inserted into the generallycircular interior portions 96 of the support brace 84 and the arms 92are inserted into the openings 104 in the flange. Significantly, whenthe second end 88 of the support brace 84 is attached to the table top12, the first end 86 of the support brace cannot be disconnected fromthe leg 62, 64. This helps create a strong and secure table 10 becausethe support brace 84 cannot be unintentionally disconnected from leg 62,64 when the table is assembled. However, when the second end 88 of thesupport brace 84 is disconnected from the table 10, then the first end86 of the support brace can be disconnected from the leg 62, 64. Thisallows the table 10 to be quickly and easily assembled, and it allowsthe table to be quickly and easily disassembled.

[0101] The brackets 90, as best seen in FIGS. 3 and 3B, are connected tothe lower surface 16 of the table top 12 by bracket mounting portions110 that allow the brackets to be connected to the table top by a snap,friction or interference fit. Advantageously, the connection of thebrackets 90 to the table top 12 does not require the use of mechanicalfasteners such as bolts or screws, which desirably expedites themanufacturing or assembly process, but fasteners may be used if desired.Additionally, because screws, bolts or other types of mechanicalfasteners are not required to attach the brackets 90 to the table top12, no holes or other types of stress concentrations are formed in thetable top. Thus, the strength and structural integrity of the table top12 is not diminished by drilling or forming holes in the table top. Inaddition, because the brackets 90 are preferably not glued to the lowersurface 16 of table top 12, the table top is not weakened or damaged byadhesive. Thus, strength and integrity of the table top 12 may beretained because the brackets 90 are not screwed, bolted or bonded tobottom surface 16 of the table top. Further, the connection of thebrackets 90 to the table top 12 without using mechanical fasteners oradhesives may facilitate assembly of the table 10 by the retailer orconsumer.

[0102] The bracket mounting portions 110 are sized and configured toretain the brackets 90 in generally fixed positions and to prevent theunintended removal of the brackets from the table top 12.Advantageously, the brackets 90 engage a relatively large portion of thetable top 12 so that forces applied to the brackets are distributed overa large area. This provides an improved and more secure connection ofthe brackets 90 to the table top 12 because forces are distributed overa much larger area than brackets attached to a table top only bymechanical fasteners. Additionally, the connection of the brackets 90 tothe table top 12 by the bracket mounting portions 110 may be less likelyto fail than conventional brackets attached to a table top by mechanicalfasteners because of the larger engagement area.

[0103] As best seen in FIG. 3B, the bracket 90 includes a main bodyportion 112 with a first end 114 and a second end 116. The first end 114of the bracket 90 includes an engaging portion 118 with a rounded flange120 and an edge 122. The second end 116 of the bracket 90 includes aretaining portion 124 with a first angled portion 126 and a secondangled portion 128. The first angled portion 126 is preferably disposedat an angle less than about 90° with respect to the main body portion112 of the bracket 90 so that it is angled towards the first end 114 ofthe bracket 90. As discussed below, the engaging portion 118 and theretaining portion 124 are sized and configured to securely attach thebracket 90 to bracket mounting portion 110 by a snap, friction orinterference fit. Additionally, the bracket 90 is preferably directlyattached to the table top 12 because the bracket mounting portions 110are desirably integrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary,one-piece structure. It will be appreciated, however, that the bracket90 does not have to be directly attached to the table top 12 and thebracket does not have to be attached to the table top by the bracketmounting portions 110.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 3B, the bracket mounting portion 110 includes afirst recess 130 and a second recess 132 that are sized and configuredto receive the first end 114 and the second end 116 of the bracket 90,respectively. In particular, the first recess 130 is disposed towardsthe middle of the table top 12 and the first recess preferably has alength that is approximately the same as the length of the first end 114of the bracket 90. A protrusion or lip 134 projects into an upperportion of the first recess 130 and it is sized and configured to fitwithin the inner portion of the rounded flange 120 on the first end 114of the bracket 90. The second recess 132 is disposed towards the end ofthe table top 12 and it has a length that is approximately the same asthe length of the second end 116 of the bracket 90. A protrusion or lip136 extends into an upper portion of the second recess 132 and it issized and configured to contact or abut at least a portion of the firstdownwardly extending portion 126 on the second end 116 of the bracket90. The distance from the first edge 122 on the first end 114 of thebracket 90 to the innermost part of the first downwardly extendingportion 126 on the second end 116 of the bracket is preferably smallerthan the distance from the protrusion 134 extending into the firstrecess 130 to the protrusion 136 extending into the second recess 132 ofthe bracket mounting portion 110, which allows the bracket to beconnected to the bracket mounting portion 110 by a snap, friction orinterference fit.

[0105] In order to connect the bracket 90 to the table top 12, theengaging portion 118 on the first end 114 of the bracket is insertedinto the first recess 130 of the bracket mounting portion 110 such thatthe rounded flange 120 and the edge 122 engage a portion of the tabletop 12. In particular, the edge 122 preferably engages a portion of thefirst recess 130 and/or the protrusion 134 and the rounded flange 120contacts or abuts at least a portion of the protrusion. The second end116 of the bracket 90 is then inserted into the second recess 132 of thebracket mounting portion 110. As the retaining portion 124 on the secondend 116 of the bracket 90 is inserted into the second recess 132, thefirst angled portion 126 and/or the protrusion 136 deflects or deformsto allow the second end of the bracket to be inserted into the recess.Once the second end 116 of the bracket 90 is inserted into the secondrecess 132, the first angled portion 126 and/or the protrusion 136resiliently or elastically returns to there original positions to securethe second end of the bracket in a fixed position. Accordingly, thebracket 90 is preferably connected to the bracket mounting portion 110of the table top 12 by a snap, friction or interference fit, and thisallows the bracket to be securely connected to the table top without theuse of fasteners. It will be appreciated, however, that fasteners oradhesives could also be used to secure the bracket 90 to the table top12 if desired.

[0106] The rounded flange 120 on the first end 114 of the bracket 90preferably has a radius of curvature that generally corresponds to theradius of curvature of the protrusion 134 to help secure the bracket 90to the bracket mounting portion 110. Similarly, the first angled portion126 on the second end 116 of the bracket 90 preferably has a radius ofcurvature that generally corresponds to the radius of curvature of theprotrusion 136. This provides a large contact area between the bracket90 and the bracket mounting portion 110. Additionally, the edge 122 onthe first end 114 of the bracket 90 is preferably sharp so that itengages and bites into the softer, blow-molded plastic material of thetable top 12 to allow the bracket 90 to be securely connected to thetable top. Significantly, the engagement of the first end 114 and thesecond end 116 of the bracket 90 to the first recess 130 and the secondrecess 132 of the bracket mounting member 110, respectively, provides alarge contact area that allows forces or loads on bracket to bedistributed over a large area, which helps provide a secure and durableconnection of the support brace 84 to the table top 12.

[0107] As seen in FIG. 2, the bracket mounting portions 110 are formedin the lower surface 16 of the table top 12 and one or more depressions30 may be formed in the bracket mounting portions so that a generallyconsistent, uniform pattern of depressions is formed in the table top12. Significantly, all or only a portion of the depressions 30 may beformed in the bracket mounting portions 110 in order to maintain thegenerally uniform pattern of depressions. Advantageously, the uniformpattern of depressions 30 may help create a table top 12 with increasedstrength, structural integrity and generally uniform characteristics.One skilled in the art will appreciate that the depressions 30 couldhave other suitable arrangements and depressions do not have to beformed in the bracket mounting portions 110.

[0108] As discussed above, the second end 88 of the support brace 84 isconnected to the bracket 90. As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 14, the secondend 88 of the support brace includes two curved arms 93 and each curvedarm has an opening 95 that leads to a generally circular interiorportion 97. The two generally circular interior portions 97 aregenerally aligned along the same axis and disposed near the end of thesupport brace 84. The generally circular interior portions 97 are sizedand configured to be connected to the second end 116 of the bracket 90.In particular, the generally circular interior portions 97 are sized andconfigured to receive a portion of the first angled portion 126 and thesecond angled portion 128 of the bracket 90. In addition, the curvedarms 93 of the support brace 84 are configured to be disposed withinopenings 99 in the second end 116 of the bracket 90. Advantageously,when the support brace 84 is connected to the legs 62, 64 and the tabletop 12, the support brace cannot be inadvertently disconnected from thebracket 90. While this connection of the support brace 84 to the bracket90 does not require that use of any mechanical fasteners, it will beappreciated that mechanical fasteners may be used to connect the supportbrace to the bracket.

[0109] In order to attach the support brace 84 to the bracket 90, thetwo generally circular interior portions 97 of the curved arms 93 arecoaxially aligned with the first angled portion 126 and the secondangled portion 128 on the second end 116 of the bracket. The firstangled portion 126 and the second angled portion 128 are then insertedinto the generally circular interior portions 97 of the support brace 84and the curved arms 93 are inserted into the openings 99 in the secondend 116 of the bracket 90. Significantly, when the support brace 84 isconnected to the bracket 90 and the bracket is connected to the tabletop 12, the support brace cannot be disconnected from the bracket. Thishelps create a strong and secure table 10 because the support brace 84cannot be unintentionally disconnected from bracket 90 when the table isassembled. However, when the bracket 90 is disconnected from the tabletop 12, then the second end 88 of the support brace 84 can bedisconnected from the bracket. This allows the table 10 to be quicklyand easily assembled and disassembled.

[0110] As discussed above, the first end 86 of the support brace 84 maybe pivotally connected to the legs 62, 64 and the second end 88 of thesupport brace may be pivotally connected to the bracket 90. One skilledin the art, however, will appreciate that the ends 86, 88 of the supportbrace 84 do not have to be pivotally connected to the legs 62, 64 or thebracket 90. Other suitable embodiments for connecting the support braceto the legs and/or the table top are disclosed in Assignee's co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, (attorney docket no. 15499.401)entitled Pivotal Connection of a Support Brace to a Table Leg and TableTop, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0111] As best seen in FIGS. 7-10, the support brace 84 includes a firstarm 140 that is pivotally connected to a second arm 142 by a pin 144.The pivotal connection of the first and second arms 140, 142 allows thesupport brace 84 to move between the extended position and the collapsedposition. When the support brace 84 is in the collapsed position, thelegs 62, 64 are also in the collapsed position. Similarly, when thesupport brace 84 is in the extended position, the legs 62, 64 are alsoin the extended position. While the support brace 84 preferably pivotsto allow the legs 62, 64 to be moved between the extended position andthe collapsed position, it will be understood that the support bracedoes not require the pivotal connection of the first arm 140 and thesecond arm 142, and the support brace 84 could have other suitablearrangements and/or configurations.

[0112] A locking mechanism 146 is preferably used to secure the supportbrace 84 in the extended position, which consequently also secures thelegs 62, 64 in the extended position. Advantageously, the lockingmechanism 146 can secure the legs 62, 64 in the extended positionregardless of the position or orientation of the table 10. Thus, thelegs 62, 64 will not move from the extended position to the collapsedposition even if the table 10 is turned on its side or upside-down. Inaddition, the locking mechanism 146 is preferably biased to remain inthe locked position and the locking mechanism positively locks thesupport brace 84 and the legs 62, 64 in the extended position. Further,the locking mechanism 140 preferably requires the user to intentionallyunlock the mechanism to allow the support brace and the legs 62, 64 tomove into the collapsed position. Thus, the support brace 84 and thelegs 62, 64 can be positively held in the extended position by thelocking mechanism 146.

[0113] As seen in FIGS. 8-10, the locking mechanism 146 includes anelongated body 148 that is generally sized and configured to fit withinthe second arm 142 of the support brace 84. In particular, the secondarm 142 of the support brace 84 has a generally U-shaped configurationwith two opposing sidewalls 150, 152 and the elongated body 148 of thelocking mechanism 146 is generally disposed between the sidewalls andtowards the end of the second arm nearest the first arm 140. Theelongated body 148 of the locking mechanism 146 includes a first end 154that is sized and configured to engage the pin 144 and a second end 156with an elongated extension 158. Two outwardly extending tabs or flanges160, 162 are disposed between the ends 154, 156 of the locking mechanism146 and the tabs extend through an opening 164 in the second arm 142 ofthe support brace 84. The elongated extension 158 on the second end 156of the locking mechanism 146 extends through an opening 166 in a flange168 extending from the second arm 142 of the support brace 84. A biasingmember such as a spring 170 is disposed about the elongated extension158 and the biasing member is positioned between the flange 168 and theelongated body 148 of the locking mechanism 146.

[0114] The locking mechanism 146 is movable relative to the second arm142 between a locked position in which the elongated body 148 isdisposed proximate the end of the second arm nearest the first arm 140,and an unlocked position in which the elongated body is disposedinwardly from the end of the second arm and away from the first arm. Thespring 170 is desirably sized and configured to bias the lockingmechanism 146 into the locked position. In this locked position, thefirst end 154 of the elongated body 148 contacts the pin 144 and theoutwardly extending tabs 160, 162 are disposed towards the end of thesecond arm 142 of the support brace 84. In the unlocked position, thefirst end 154 of the elongated body 148 is spaced apart from the pin 144and the outwardly extending tabs 160, 162 are spaced away from the endof the second arm 142 of the support brace 84. One skilled in the artwill appreciate that other suitable types of biasing mechanisms may beused to bias the locking mechanism 146 into the locked position.

[0115] The first and second arms 140, 142 of the support brace 84 aregenerally aligned and at least a portion of the arms overlap when thesupport brace is in the extended position. In particular, as best seenin FIGS. 8 and 9, the first arm 140 of the support brace 84 includes twoextensions 172, 174 and the extensions are generally parallel to andoverlap portions of the sidewalls 150, 152 of the second arm 142 whenthe support brace is in the extended position. When the lockingmechanism 146 is in the locked position, the locking mechanism maintainsthe extensions 172, 174 in the generally parallel and overlappingposition with the sidewalls 150, 152 of the second arm 142.Specifically, the outwardly extending tabs 160, 162 engage theextensions 172, 174 to prevent the first arm 140 from moving relative tothe second arm 142. Thus, the outwardly extending tabs 160, 162 preventthe first arm 140 from pivoting relative to the second arm 142, and thatmaintains the support brace 84 and the legs 62, 64 in the extendedposition.

[0116] On the other hand, when the support brace 84 is in the collapsedposition, the extensions 172, 174 do not overlap portions of thesidewalls 150, 152 of the second arm 142 of the support brace 84. Incontrast, as best seen in FIG. 6, the extensions 172, 174 are spacedaway from the second arm 142 of the support brace 84 and at least aportion of the second arm may be disposed inside the body of the firstarm 140 to form a small, compact arrangement. Advantageously, thesupport brace 84 does not significantly protrude from the lower surface16 of the table top 12 in the collapsed position. This allows a table 10with a relatively small height when the legs 62, 64 are in the collapsedposition to be constructed, if desired.

[0117] When the locking mechanism 146 is in the unlocked position, thelocking mechanism does not secure the support brace 84 in the extendedposition. In contrast, the locking mechanism 146 allows the first andsecond arms 140, 142 of the support brace 84 to freely move with respectto each other. In particular, as shown in FIG. 10, when the user movesthe locking mechanism 146 into the unlocked position, the outwardlyextending tabs 160, 162 no longer engage the extensions 172, 174 andthat allows the first and second arms 140, 142 of the support brace 84to freely rotate. Desirably, when the user releases the lockingmechanism 146, the spring 170 causes the locking member to return to itslocked position.

[0118] As best seen in FIGS. 6, 9 and 10, the extensions 172, 174 have acurved front surface 176 and a generally straight rear surface 178 topositively secure the locking mechanism 146 in the locked position, andto allow the support brace 84 to be moved from the collapsed position tothe extended position without the user unlocking the locking mechanism146. In particular, the curved front surfaces 176 of the extensions 172,174 are sized and configured to engage the outwardly extending tabs 160,162 of the locking mechanism 146 when the support brace 84 is moved fromthe collapsed position to the extended position. Specifically, thecurved front surfaces 176 engage the outwardly extending tabs 160, 162and push the locking member 146 into the unlocked position. When thesupport brace 84 is in the extended position and the first and secondarms 140, 142 are generally aligned, the curved front surface 176 of theextensions 172, 174 no longer engage the tabs 160, 162 and the spring170 returns the locking mechanism 146 to the locked position. Thus, thelocking member 146 allows the support brace 84 to be moved from thecollapsed position to the extended position without requiring the userto unlock the locking mechanism.

[0119] The generally straight rear surfaces 178 of the extensions 172,174 prevent the locking mechanism 146 from being inadvertently unlockedand allowing the support brace 84 to move from the extended position tothe collapsed position. In particular, the generally straight rearsurfaces 178 of the extensions 172, 174 engage the generally planarlower surfaces of the tabs 160, 162, and this engagement of theextensions and tabs prevents the support brace 84 from moving from theextended position to the collapsed position. In order to allow thesupport brace 84 to move from the extended position to the collapsedposition, the user must intentionally unlock the locking mechanism 146,and this allows the support brace and the legs 62, 64 to be collapsed.

[0120] Significantly, the locking mechanism 146 is lightweight andincludes few moving parts. In particular, the locking mechanism 146 ispreferably constructed from metal and it can be stamped or formed intothe desired configuration. Additionally, the second arm 140 ispreferably constructed from metal and the opening 164, opening 166 andflange 168 can be stamped or formed into the desired configuration.While the first arm 140, second arm 142 and the locking mechanism 146are preferably unitary components, it will be appreciated that thesecomponents may be constructed from multiple parts that are connectedtogether. Further, these components may have other suitableconfigurations and Oz arrangements depending, for example, upon the sizeand/or intended use of the table 10.

[0121] In operation of the locking mechanism 146, when the second arm142 is in the collapsed position and being rotated into the extendedposition, the curved front surfaces 176 of the extensions 172, 174engage the outwardly extending tabs 160, 162. The rotation of the secondarm 142 relative to the first arm 140 causes the extensions 172, 174 topush the outwardly extending tabs 160, 162 and the locking member 146into the unlocked position. When the support brace 84 is in the extendedposition, the extensions 172, 174 no longer engage the outwardlyextending tabs 160, 162 and the spring 170 forces the locking member 146into the locked position. Alternatively, instead of the extensions 172,174 moving the locking mechanism 146 into the unlocked position whilethe support brace 84 is being moved from the collapsed position to theextended position, the user may manually move the locking mechanism intothe unlocked position. In order to move the support brace 84 and legs62, 64 from the extended position to the collapsed position, the userslides the locking mechanism 146 into the unlocked position, as shown inFIG. 10, which allows the second arm 142 to rotate relative to the firstarm 140. Once the arms 140, 142 are not longer in the extended position,the user can release the locking mechanism 146 and position the legs 62,64 in the collapsed position. Other suitable types of locking mechanismsfor retaining table legs in an extended position are disclosed inAssignee's co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, (attorneydocket no. 15499.400) entitled Table Leg Locking Mechanism, which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0122] As shown in FIGS. 15-17, one or more clips 180 are desirablyattached to the table top 12 and the clips are sized and configured tohold the legs 62, 64 in the collapsed or storage position. Inparticular, as seen in FIG. 3, the clips 180 receive and retain the legs62, 64 such that the legs are generally parallel to and proximate thelower surface 16 of the table top 12. Desirably, at least a portion ofthe legs 62, 64 are located within the channels 72 formed in the lowersurface 16 of the table top 12 so that the height of the table top canbe minimized when the legs are in the collapsed position. As shown inFIG. 3, a single clip 180 may be used to receive and retain each leg 62,64 in the collapsed position. It will be appreciated, however, that anysuitable number of clips 180 may be used to retain the legs 62, 64 inthe collapsed position. It will also be appreciated that the table 10does not require the clip 180 to secure the legs 62, 64 in the collapsedposition and other suitable devices may be used to secure the legs inthe collapsed position. For example, one or more securing members asdisclosed in Assignee's U.S. Pat. No. 6,530,331, entitled PortableFolding Utility Table with Integral Receiving Members, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety, may be used to secure thelegs in the collapsed position.

[0123] The clip 180 includes a body 182 that is sized and configured tobe inserted into a corresponding receiving portion 184 formed in thetable top 12, and the receiving portion desirably has the same generalsize and shape as one of the depressions 30. Thus, while the receivingportion 184 may be placed in any suitable location, it is desirablypositioned so that it does not interrupt or disturb the generallyuniform pattern of depressions 30. Accordingly, the receiving portion184 may allow the table top 12 to be constructed with generally uniformcharacteristics, such as generally consistent strength and structuralintegrity, because the receiving portion may act or function similar toone of the depressions 30.

[0124] As best seen in FIGS. 16 and 17, the clip 180 includes a legreceiving portion 186 that is sized and configured to receive and retaina leg 62, 64 of the table 10. The leg receiving portion 186 preferablyreceives and retains the leg 62, 64 in a snap, friction or interferencefit. In particular, the leg receiving portion 186 includes an opening188 that is smaller than the corresponding portion of the leg 62, 64that is intended to be received by the receiving portion. Thus, when theleg 62, 64 is inserted into the opening 188, the clip deforms toincrease the size of the opening and allow the leg to be inserted intothe leg receiving portion 186. The clip 180 then elastically orresiliently returns to its original position to receive and retain theleg 62, 64 within the leg receiving portion 186.

[0125] The clip 180 also includes a retaining portion 190 that allowsthe clip to be connected to the table top 12. The retaining portion 190has a generally U-shaped configuration with opposing sidewalls 192, 194and a lower surface 196. The opposing sidewalls 192, 194 includeoutwardly extending projections 198, 200, respectively, that are sizedand configured to securely connect the clip 180 to the table top 12. Inparticular, as best seen in FIG. 17, the receiving portion 184 formed inthe table top 12 includes an opening 202 that is desirably sized smallerthan at least a portion of the width of the retaining portion 190 of theclip 180. When the retaining portion 190 of the clip 180 is insertedinto the opening 202, the retaining portion and/or the opening deform ordeflect to allow the retaining portion to be inserted into the receivingportion 184. The opening 202 and/or the retaining portion 190 thenresiliently or elastically return to there original positions to securethe clip 180 within the receiving portion 184.

[0126] Additionally, the receiving portion 184 includes opposingsidewalls 204, 206 and a bottom surface 208 and at least a portion ofthese surfaces are intended to contact corresponding portions of theclip 180. Specifically, the sidewalls 204, 206 of the receiving portion184 are designed to contact the sidewalls 192, 194 of the retainingportion 190 of the clip 180, and the projections 198, 200 are intendedto bite into and engage the sidewalls of the receiving portion. Therelatively large contact area between the retaining portion 190 of theclip 180 and the receiving portion 184 in the table top 10, and theengagement of the as projections 198, 200 with the sidewalls 204, 206 ofthe receiving portion, allows the clip to be securely connected to thetable top 12.

[0127] Advantageously, the clips 180 can be quickly and easily connectedto the table top 12, which may speed the manufacturing process. Theclips 180 also allow the legs 62, 64 to be secured in the collapsedposition regardless of the position or orientation of the table 10. Inaddition, the clips 180 may be disconnected from the table top 12, ifdesired. Significantly, the clips 180 can be attached to the table top12 without the use of mechanical fasteners such as screws or bolts, butmechanical fasteners may be used to attach the clips to the table top ifdesired. Further, it will be appreciated that the clips 180 may haveother suitable sizes and configurations depending, for example, upon thesize and configuration of the receiving portion 184 formed in the tabletop 12. Other suitable embodiments for the clip are disclosed inAssignee's co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, (attorneydocket no. 15499.399) entitled Table with Frame That Can Be Attached tothe Table Top without Mechanical Fasteners, which was previouslyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0128] As shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 18, the lip 28 is preferably disposednear or at the outer portion of the table top 12. As discussed above,the lip 28 preferably extends downwardly beyond the lower surface 16 ofthe table top 12 and the lip may be aligned with or form part of theedge 26 of the table top, but the lip may also be spaced inwardly fromthe edge of the table top. As best seen in FIG. 18, the lip 28 includesan inner surface 210 and a lower surface 212, and the lip preferably hasa generally hollow interior. Advantageously, the lip 28 may beintegrally formed during the blow-molding process as part of a unitary,one-piece table top 12. It will be appreciated, however, that the lip 28does not have to be formed as a unitary component of the table top 12.

[0129] The lower surface 212 of the lip 28 desirably has a smooth,planar surface that facilitates stacking of the tables 10. The innersurface 210 of the lip 28, however, includes a number of serrations,notches, ribs, and/or struts that are sized and configured to increasethe strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the lip 28. In particular,the inner surface 210 of the lip 28 may include a number of notches,indentations, grooves or other inwardly extending portions 216 to forman uneven or saw-tooth type surface. The inner surface 210 may alsoinclude a number of bumps, humps, protrusions or other outwardlyextending portions 218 to form an uneven or saw-tooth type surface. Theinner surface 210 of the lip 28 may also contain a combination ofinwardly and outwardly portions 216, 218 to form the uneven or saw-toothtype surface.

[0130] Advantageously, the uneven inner surfaces 210 of the lip 28 mayincrease the strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the lip 28, whichmay increase the strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the outerportions of the table top 12. For example, the uneven inner surfaces 210of the lip 28 may allow the outer portions of the table top 12 to absorbmore energy or larger impacts than conventional planar surfaces.Additionally, the uneven inner surfaces 210 of the lip 28 may absorbmore energy without deforming and the uneven inner surfaces 210 may flexor deflect more without breaking or permanently deforming. Further, theuneven inner surfaces 210 may be more likely to resiliently return tothere original configurations. Thus, the serrated inner surfaces 210 ofthe lip 28 may form a more durable and longer-lasting outer portion ofthe table top 12.

[0131] The lip 28 may also include one or more ribs 220 that increasethe wall thickness of the inner surface 210 of the lip. Advantageously,the ribs 220 may also increase the strength, rigidity and/or flexibilityof the outer portions of the table top 12. The ribs 220 preferablyextend from the lower surface 16 of the table top 12 to the lowersurface 212 of the lip 28 and the ribs are preferably generallyvertically aligned, but the ribs may have any suitable arrangement andconfiguration. It will be appreciated that the ribs 220 may be used incombination with the inwardly extending portions 216 and/or theoutwardly extending portions 218 to increase the strength of the tabletop 12. Further, it will be appreciated that the inwardly extendingportions 216, outwardly extending portions 218 and/or ribs 220 may belocated in other suitable portions of the table top 12, such as theouter surfaces of the lip, the edge 22 of the table top 12, and/or thelower surface 212 of the lip. It will be understood, however, that thetable top 12 does not require inwardly extending portions 216, outwardlyextending portions 218 or ribs 220 be formed in the inner surface of thelip 28.

[0132] Significantly, the inwardly extending portions 216, outwardlyextending portions 218 and/or ribs 220 may be positioned such that theyare generally consistent with the pattern of depressions 30 formed inthe lower surface 16 of the table top 12. That is, the inwardlyextending portions 216, outwardly extending portions 218 and/or ribs 220may be located so that they are aligned with the pattern of depressions30 to create a table top 12 with more uniform characteristics. This mayallow a table top 12 to be constructed with generally consistentstrength and structural integrity.

[0133] Further, as best seen in FIG. 18, one or more of the corners 222of the table top 12 may have one or more inwardly extending portions216, outwardly extending portions 218 and/or ribs 220 to increase thestrength and structural integrity of the corner. The inwardly extendingportions 216, outwardly extending portions 218 and/or ribs 220 may bespaced closer together in the corners 222 than along the inner surface210 of the lip 28, if desired, to further increase the strength andstructural integrity of the table top. The inwardly extending portions216, outwardly extending portions 218 and/or ribs 220 may beparticularly advantageous in the corners 222 because the corners may bemore likely to be damaged and the curved surfaces of the corners mayhave less strength than the straight edges of the table top 12.

[0134] In order to further increase the strength and structuralintegrity of the corners 222, the radius of the corners may be increasedbecause the strength and structural integrity of the corners increaseswith a larger radius of curvature. Preferably, the radius of curvatureof the inner surface of the corner 222 is increased and one or moreinwardly extending portions 216, outwardly extending portions 218 and/orribs 220 are formed in the corner for added strength. It will beappreciated that the inwardly extending portions 216, outwardlyextending portions 218 and/or ribs 220 may also be formed on the outersurfaces of the corners 222 and/or the other edges of the table top 12.

[0135] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the inner surface 210 of lip 28 mayalso contain one or more handles 224 that are integrally formed in thetable top 12. The handles 224 allow the table 10 to be easily carriedwhen the legs 62, 64 are in the collapsed position. In particular, thehandles 224 are preferably sized and configured to allow the user togrip the table 10 with one hand and the handles are preferably locatedat or near the center of the table top 12. The handles 224 arepreferably integrally formed in the lip 28 of the table top 12 so thatthe generally consistent pattern of depressions 30 in the lower surface16 of the table top is not disturbed, but the handles may be formed inany desired portion of the table top. Additionally, while the handles224 are preferably integrally formed in the table top 12 as part of aone-piece blow-molded structure, the handles do not have to beintegrally formed in the table top.

[0136] Significantly, the lip 28, inwardly extending portions 216,outwardly extending portions 218, ribs 220 and handles 224 may beintegrally formed in the table top 12 as part of a unitary, one-piecestructure. Desirably, these features are integrally formed in the tabletop 12 during the blow-molding process. It will also be understood thatother features of the table top 12 may be integrally formed as part of aone-piece structure. For example, the depressions 30, frame mountingportions 36, bracket mounting portions 110, and clip receiving portions184 may be integrally formed as part of the one-piece structure. Becausethese features may be integrally formed in the table top 12, that mayexpedite the manufacturing process. These features, however, do not haveto be integrally formed in the table top 12 and they could be attachedto the table top by any suitable methods or devices.

[0137] As seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, the table top 12 may also beconstructed from two or more pieces. In particular, the table top 12 maybe constructed from a first piece 230 and a second piece 232 with one ormore interlocking portions 234 and one or more overlapping portions 236to create the table top 12 that folds in half. Significantly, the tabletop 12 that folds in half may allow the table 10 to be easilytransported and/or stored. Additionally, the various features discussedabove can be integrally formed in the table top 12 constructed from twoor more pieces. It will be appreciated, however, that the table top 12does not have to be constructed from two or more pieces. Other suitableembodiments for a table top that is foldable are disclosed in Assignee'sco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, (attorney docket no.15499.477) entitled Portable Folding Table, which is hereby incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

[0138] Although this invention has been described in terms of certainpreferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art are also within the scope of this invention.Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined onlyby the claims which follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A table comprising: a table top including anupper surface and a lower surface, the table top being constructed fromblow-molded plastic and including a generally hollow interior; a leastone leg attached to the table top; a lip downwardly extending from thetable top, the lip including a lower surface and an inner surface; andone or more strengthening members integrally formed in the lip as partof a unitary structure, the strengthening members being sized andconfigured to increase the strength of the lip.
 2. The table as in claim1, wherein the lip is integrally formed in the table top as part of aunitary, one-piece construction, the lip including a generally hollowinterior that is integrally formed during the blow-molding process withthe generally hollow interior of the table top.
 3. The table as in claim1, further comprising a plurality of depressions integrally formed inthe table top as part of the unitary, one-piece construction, theplurality of depressions being arranged into a predetermined pattern andthe one or more strengthening members being generally aligned with atleast some of the plurality of depressions.
 4. The table as in claim 1,wherein the one or more strengthening members include one or more ofinwardly extending portions.
 5. The table as in claim 1, wherein the oneor more strengthening members include one or more outwardly extendingportions.
 6. The table as in claim 1, wherein the one or morestrengthening members include one or more ribs that increase a thicknessof the lip.
 7. The table as in claim 1, wherein the one or morestrengthening members are formed in the inner surface of the lip.
 8. Thetable as in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of depressionsintegrally formed in the table top as part of the unitary, one-piececonstruction, the plurality of depressions being arranged into apredetermined pattern in order to increase the strength of the tabletop, the one or more strengthening members formed in the lip being sizedand configured to minimize any disruption of the predetermined patternof the depressions.
 9. The table as in claim 1, further comprising oneor more strengthening members integrally formed in a corner of the tabletop as part of a unitary structure, the strengthening members beingsized and configured to increase the strength of the corner.
 10. Thetable as in claim 9, wherein the corner has an increased radius ofcurvature to further increase the strength of the corner.
 11. A tablecomprising: a table top including an upper surface and a lower surface,the table top being constructed from blow-molded plastic and including agenerally hollow interior, the table top including at least two corners;a least one leg attached to the table top; at least one corner formed inthe table top, the corner including an inner surface and a lowersurface; and one or more strengthening members integrally formed in thecorner as part of a unitary structure, the strengthening members beingsized and configured to increase the strength of the corner.
 12. Thetable as in claim 11, wherein the corner is integrally formed in thetable top as part of a unitary, one-piece construction, the cornerincluding a generally hollow interior that is integrally formed duringthe blow-molding process with the generally hollow interior of the tabletop.
 13. The table as in claim 11, further comprising a plurality ofdepressions integrally formed in the table top as part of the unitary,one-piece construction, the plurality of depressions being arranged intoa predetermined pattern and the one or more strengthening members beinggenerally aligned with at least some of the plurality of depressions.14. The table as in claim 11, wherein the one or more strengtheningmembers include one or more of inwardly extending portions.
 15. Thetable as in claim 11, wherein the one or more strengthening membersinclude one or more outwardly extending portions.
 16. The table as inclaim 11, wherein the one or more strengthening members include one ormore ribs that increase a thickness of the corner.
 17. The table as inclaim 11, wherein the one or more strengthening members are formed inthe inner surface of the corner.
 18. The table as in claim 11, furthercomprising a plurality of depressions integrally formed in the table topas part of the unitary, one-piece construction, the plurality ofdepressions being arranged into a predetermined pattern in order toincrease the strength of the table top, the one or more strengtheningmembers formed in the corner being sized and configured to minimize anydisruption of the predetermined pattern of the depressions.
 19. Thetable as in claim 11, further comprising one or more strengtheningmembers integrally formed in a lip of the table top as part of a unitarystructure, the strengthening members being sized and configured toincrease the strength of the lip.